Back in the swing of things

I think I'm back, been crocheting a bit more than I was. I am so glad, I hated being in such a slump. It's such fun to have the ideas flowing again even though it seems I can't keep up!! Now if I can just finish some of my UFO's (unfinished objects, lol).

Here's the second of the two ponchos - I have to attach the flowers to the tie and weave in ends, but the actual crocheting is finished.



And I made a couple of squares today that I think may end up as part of a scrap-ghan. You can't see the design as well as I'd like (I used a variegated yarn, should have gone with a solid) but I love this pattern! I used an I hook and ended up with a 10" square. Wish I didn't crochet so tightly.

Cygnus (12" crocheted square)


Here's the second one - amazing how much quickly this one worked up (1 hour as opposed to 2).



No recipes again. With all the house stuff and baseball starting up, I am sticking with the old favorites and quick meals. Oh, wait! I made this one a couple of weeks ago and it is wonderful! You can't taste the spinach even though you can see it. This is my recipe, came out of a conversation with a bunch of friends and a desire to sneak some "good stuff" into the kids!

Spinach Meatballs

2 lbs hamburger
1 package frozen spinach, thawed, drained, squeezed dry as possible, and chopped fine - remove any obvious stems
2 eggs
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (out of a canister is fine)
1/2 cup italian flavored bread crumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp salt (optional)
1/8 tsp pepper

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl (mixture is a little moister than "regular" meatballs). Form small balls (I use a 1 1/2 tsp measuring spoon and make them about an inch) and place on a cookie sheet lined with foil. Bake at 375 for 15-17 minutes or until just done (don't overcook). Cool and flash freeze immediately, or add to a pot of red sauce, simmer for awhile and serve over your favorite pasta.